Samuel had been lent (read: surrendered) to God by his mother, Hannah. Determined to honor her oath to God and still love her precious son, Hannah’s hands worked her loom. Samuel could proudly speak of “just like Mother used to make,” then model a freshly made demonstration of mother love.

Consider that in 1065 BC that a robe (or coat) had to be hand-made. Despite being the beloved wife of a wealthy, generous man, Hannah insisted on making for her son with her own hands. Samuel grew up with physical proof that he had the tender love and affectionate attention of his mother.

Maybe your son or daughter is physically distant or otherwise separated from you. Like Hannah, you can chose to make sure your precious child has physical proof of your tender love and affectionate attention. Maybe you cannot be there with them physically, but you can send evidence they are always in your mind and heart.

Samuel grew up physically distant from Hannah, but he never lacked for unescapable evidence of her love and care. Who needs a care box from you? Who needs proof that the miles mean nothing to your heart and mind?

Spend the time to make with your own hands. Be sure to deliver the message that the distance does not impact your love and affection. Your son or daughter may be surrendered to God, but that does not mean you cannot deliver some mother (or father) love anyway.

Think: What a mother (or father) makes for a child is extra precious.

Pray: “Lord, help me to prove my love to Your children, no matter how far away they are.”